Duffy the Disney Bear

D23 Expo 2022 Disney Parks Experiences and Products Presentations

28 July 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

More news from the D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa, this time all about the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products presentations! This is perhaps the most anticipated set of sessions each D23 Expo due to the parks announcements. However there are some really fun Imagineering presentations as well that you won’t want to miss. Here is the official scoop from D23 directly:

The D23 Expo is returning for a spectacular in-person event in Anaheim with special surprises for fans of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. With exciting pavilions, captivating panel presentations and special retail experiences, fans can explore and be the first to learn about never-before-seen details of new themed lands, attractions, shows and more.

The Disney Parks and Experiences Wonderful World of Dreams pavilion invites attendees to step into the new stories, attractions and adventures Disney Imagineers are bringing to life around the globe. Fans will discover behind-the-scenes glimpses of the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction coming to Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, the transformation of EPCOT, new Frozen-themed experiences, Disney Cruise Line, live entertainment and more.

Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro will take to the Hall D23 stage Sunday, September 11, at 10:30 a.m. for A Boundless Future: Disney Parks Experiences and Products to share a look at new details of highly anticipated projects in development around the world. The fan-favorite presentation is sure to feature see-it-here-first moments and surprises.

D23 Expo is the place for fans to shop for new and limited-edition merchandise from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic, plus items celebrating Disney100 and D23 Expo. Attendees can visit the D23 Expo Marketplace for a new, immersive retail experience with products from shopDisney.com and Disney Parks. The Walt Disney Imagineering Mickey’s of Glendale shop is returning to D23 Expo this year, this time with three unique retail spaces tailored to different categories and experiences: Mickey’s of Glendale Main Store, Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store and D23 Expo Shop x Mickey’s of Glendale.

Guests at D23 Expo will get first access to DisneyMe, an all-new digital avatar in the Play Disney Parks app. This experience empowers guests to express their Disney style by creating their own unique DisneyMe. To celebrate the launch of DisneyMe as part of Disney Uncharted Adventure on the Disney Wish, guests at D23 Expo will be invited on a quest that can only be completed at the Expo. Attendees will uncover specially designed Disney Wish and D23 Expo digital clothing and accessories for their DisneyMe around the show floor.

Starting in September, D23 Expo guests will need to download the latest Play Disney Parks app to be ready to create their DisneyMe and join the DisneyMe D23 Expo Quest during the convention.

Throughout the weekend, fans can dive deeper into the world of Disney through several special panel presentations:

Inside Look at the Society of Explorers and Adventurers
Friday, Sept. 9, 10:30 a.m., Backlot Stage
An inside look at the continuing development of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers — what it means in the Disney parks and how these stories continue to grow. Disney Imagineers are joined by Julie Kagawa to talk about her first two books in a series of novels that tie into the lore of S.E.A.

A Peek Behind the Curtain at the Walt Disney Imagineering Illusions and Special Effects Development Lab
Saturday, September 10, 10 a.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Learn about the legacy of Walt Disney Imagineering’s Illusions and Special Effects Development Lab, including the work created by Yale Gracey for the Haunted Mansion and other early projects, plus a behind-the-curtain look at the present-day magical process that is so unique to Imagineering.

Uncovering Treasures from the Marty Sklar Collection
Saturday, September 10, 12 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Join Walt Disney Imagineering Ambassador Bob Weis and Leah and Leslie Sklar, the wife and daughter of the late Disney Legend and Imagineer Marty Sklar, as they discuss some of the treasures they’ve discovered while going through Marty’s collection from his more than 50 years with Walt Disney Imagineering.

Dreaming, Designing and Bringing to Life the Disney Wish
Saturday, September 10, 4 p.m., Backlot Stage
Disney Imagineers fresh off the launch of the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet — the Disney Wish — talk about their experiences bringing this ship to life. From the wondrously themed spaces and imaginative kids clubs to the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, the ship brings to life fantastical stories you know and love like never before.

Walt Disney Imagineering: 70 Years of Making the Impossible, Possible
Sunday, September 11, 1 p.m., Premiere Stage
For seven decades, the magic-makers at Walt Disney Imagineering have blended limitless imagination with cutting-edge technology to create groundbreaking experiences that bring together families and friends to create lifelong memories. Join Imagineers past and present as they discuss the core elements of storytelling and innovation that bring dreams to life for guests from all around the world.

Disney Parks Through the Decades: A Disney Ambassador Perspective
Sunday, September 11, 4 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Join us for a conversation with Disney Ambassadors spanning the decades, including 1966 Disney Ambassador, Connie Lane, and 1971 Walt Disney World Ambassador, Debby Dane Browne. From representing Walt Disney at Disneyland in the 1960s, to opening Walt Disney World: experience the history of Disney Parks like never before.

The World of Duffy & Friends Revealed
Sunday, September 11, 4:15 p.m., Hyperion Stage
Disney Imagineers discuss the origin and continuing popularity of Duffy & Friends, including the newest friend who has become a global phenomenon — LinaBell!

D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo Live! For more information, visit D23Expo.com.

Personally, I cannot wait for the Duffy and Friends panel! I have quite a few of the friends at home and will love learning more about them in person!

Duffy the Disney Bear Passholder Exclusive T-shirt

15 October 2011 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Since first learning of Duffy the Disney Bear‘s popularity in Japan’s Tokyo Disney Sea, I’ve been a huge fan and supporter of his presence here in the US Disney parks. I love reporting on Duffy’s new outfits and special edition Duffy bears already in costume.

So of course I was in attendance today when 750 Walt Disney World Annual Passholders received a special t-shirt commemorating Duffy’s one-year anniversary in the parks here. Also part of this event was a Duffy book release and signing by the illustrator, Monty Maldovan. This new story book tells the tale of Duffy the Disney Bear and is sure to be a favorite around these parts. The illustrations are simply darling.

Monty Maldovan signs books for eager Duffy fans

I’m continually amazed at what Disney gives back to its guests and annual passholders and today was no exception. Of course, the best part was walking through the door to my little guy and giving him Duffy’s new shirt and book. He was SO excited. As you can see, so were Duffy and friends:

Big Duffy reads to newly-shirted Duffy, as some friends listen in*

Thanks once again to Disney Parks for a memorable day!

^{*This photo scene is an homage to one of my very favorite children’s books – Edith and Mr. Bear by the talented Dare Wright.}

Aulani, Halloween and Epcot Food & Wine Festival Duffy the Disney Bear!

2 September 2011 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

A reliable source (aka one of my amazing Disney cast member friends) has just let me know that an all-new Duffy Bear will be released for the 16th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival! ~~The design of the Duffy must remain secret for now,~~ but hopefully he’ll be released a little before the opening day of the Festival, September 30th.

EDIT: Thanks to the all-powerful StitchKingdom for letting me know that Food & Wine Duffy was actually at the D23 Expo! I actually walked right by him and didn’t take any pics. Oops, bad blogger. Can I blame being overwhelmed by Disneyland goodness? 😉 In any event, thanks to StichKingdom.com, I can now share photos of the Food & Wine Duffy NOW!

Epcot Food and Wine Duffy — 2011 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Duffy the Disney Bear - image courtesy of Stitchkingdom

Aulani Halloween and Food and Wine Duffy — From left to right the new Aulani DVC Resort Duffy, Halloween Duffy, Holiday Duffy and Food & Wine Festival Duffy!!! Image ©StitchKingdom

That’s right, not only is there a 2011 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Duffy, there’s an Aulani Resort Duffy and Halloween and Holiday Duffy’s too! Collect them all! 😉

Speaking of Food & Wine, did you know that the Disney Food Blog Mini-Guide to the 2011 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is on sale now? The best part is it’s all in a .PDF file so you can carry it on your smart phone or iPad where ever you go, while you dine around the world! I’ve seen this guide, and it is worth every penny.

See Photos of World Showcase Booths and Food Before You Arrive!

You’ll have access to menus and photos (including many food photos!) from the World Showcase booths. You’ll also get location, time, and price details for every single event, concert, and seminar at the Festival. Our exclusive and customized bonus sections will help make your trip to the Festival your best visit ever.

Take a look before your trip to decide what menu items and events your family will enjoy, then book early to make sure you’re one of the lucky attendees! Time is money on a Disney Vacation; get the most out of both!

Keep checking back for news on the Food & Wine-themed Duffy!!

Celebrate the Fourth of July with Independence Day Duffy!

21 May 2011 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Something I noticed park-wide this past week at Walt Disney World was the presence of red white and blue everywhere. Cookies, cupcakes, and other treats were the most noticeable, aside from these plush friends –

Fourth of July Duffy — Fourth of July Mickey Mouse joins his Duffy friendsth

Costumed 4th of July Duffy is on sale $30 these guys were spotted at World of Disney in the Downtown Disney Marketplace. I thought the cute old-school Mickey Mouse was adorable too! Hooray for the red white and blue! 😉

Adorable Easter Treats and Gifts at Walt Disney World

14 April 2011 by Suzannah Otis 2 Comments

A couple of weekends ago we wandered in to the Magic Kingdom’s Main Street Confectionery and discovered these sweet Easter treats. I’m kind of hoping the Easter Bunny stops here before visiting my house!

Easter rice crispie treats at Disney — Look at these cute bunny rice crispie treats!

Easter cupcakes at Disney — Delicious-looking Easter cupcakes and cookies at Disney

In addition to the edible goodies, Easter Bunny Duffy was hanging out, along with these cute Mickey and Minnie plush, dressed in chick costumes, inside a zippered egg. Really cute! Those pretty Spring colored glass Mickey plates were hard to resist too!

Easter Duffy and Mickey and Minnie plush — Easter Duffy $30, and Mickey and Minnie plush "Eggs" $11.95/ea

Has anyone tried any of those yummy cupcakes or cookies?? They almost look too cute to eat! Almost. If you plan to be in Walt Disney World for Easter, check out these Disney Easter dining options too.

PARK PHOTOS: Fun Antenna Toppers and Easter Duffy the Disney Bear

28 March 2011 by Suzannah Otis 4 Comments

Those following my twitter stream may recall my posting a picture of the fun new antenna toppers I found a few weeks back:

Disney Cars Monsters Inc Monorail antenna topper — Cars, St. Patrick's Day Mike W. from Monsters Inc. and a Monorail

Well now that St. Patrick’s Day is over, some more new antenna toppers were spotted in the parks by Disney fan Aurora:

Cars Monorail Flamingo Mohawk Disney antenna toppers — Cars, Monorail, Happy Flamingo with Mouse ears and a Mohawk Mickey!

I love the new additions! The flamingo is one of my favorites as you may remember from my post about the lawn flamingo Disney sells too! The punk rock Mickey head with mohawk, pierced ear and sunglasses is cute too. Just wait till you see the back!

Mohawk Mickey antenna topper — A "Mom" tattoo!

And more new merchandise – for the upcoming Easter holiday, Duffy the Disney Bear is all decked out in an Easter Bunny costume, complete with fuzzy slippers. Will Duffy replace Peter Cottontail?? Thanks to Shelley C. for the photo!

I think the bunny slippers really make this Easter Duffy Bear!

If you’re in the parks and spot something unique or cute that you’d like me to share, just drop me a photo at [email protected] or tweet me @zannaland and I’ll be happy to post it here with credit to you of course! 🙂

WDW 40th Anniversary Merchandise & New Duffy Costumes

18 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 6 Comments

On a recent visit to the Magic Kingdom, I was super excited by all the wonderful Walt Disney World 40th Anniversary merchandise, and wanted to share some with you. Check out all the new items below (click to enlarge photos):

40th Ladies t-shirt — WDW 40th picture frames and ladies Castle projection T-shirt

Cupid Duffy Flies into Disney for Valentine’s Day

3 January 2011 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

In keeping with Disney’s promise to have a Duffy for every season, Valentine’s Day Duffy is out and I must say, with his little fluffy wings, he’s quite adorable! The costumed Duffy’s are $25 and a little smaller than the regular sized Duffy. The costumes are attached and do not come off. You could probably put the separate costumes on top of the attached costumes, but since they are made for slightly larger bears, they will be a little big.

Duffy the Disney Bear Arrives in Epcot-Photo Tour of Everything Duffy

14 October 2010 by Suzannah Otis 5 Comments

Today saw the arrival of Duffy the Disney Bear to his new home at Epcot’s World Showcase. Fans, media and Disney Cast Members alike queued up to welcome Duffy, get their picture taken and perhaps even pick up a Duffy plush bear to take home. Duffy’s meet and greet area is in a newly constructed *shaded* gazebo overlooking the flagship merchandise shop – “Everything Duffy.”

Walt Disney World Ambassador Vanessa Rosas introduced Vice President of Epcot, Dan Cockerell who then welcomed Mickey (dressed in his sea captain outfit) and Duffy from the nearby Friendship boat landing. After singing the official Duffy song and cutting the ribbon, Duffy headed over to the first of his two appearances: 12:20pm – 2:30pm and 3:45pm – 7:00pm. Be sure to check the official times guide or with Guest Relations to see when Duffy is appearing during your visit.

Speaking with Disney Trading Project Manager and all around cool guy, Steven Miller (who let me know today he’s taking on more projects, including Duffy – awesome!), he expressed the excitement about bringing Duffy on board and the many new things to come in the next few months. He was just shown a mock-up of the promised Duffy Ear Hat and said it looks great. Can’t wait to see it!

It was a good sign for potential success that all the World Showcase-themed costumes were sold out in a matter of hours! More are on the way and “Everything Duffy” Cast Members told us there will be a Halloween costume coming soon along with the other Duffy holiday and celebration costumes we mentioned previously on ZannaLand.

Facts On Duffy The Disney Bear’s Move to Epcot’s World Showcase Oct 14

20 September 2010 by Suzannah Otis 13 Comments

Saturday, September 18th saw the Walt Disney World Annual Passholder preview of Duffy the Disney Bear and his move from Japan’s Tokyo Disney Sea to our very own Epcot World Showcase. Duffy is getting some mixed reviews among die-hard EPCOT Center fans that would rather see money spent on new or improved attractions. Call me a sentimental girl, but I for one am excited for Duffy’s arrival and supportive of the treatment he’s getting as he get introduced to the rest of Walt Disney World.

I look at it this way – as a young girl visiting EPCOT in the early 1980’s, if Figment was given the same love and attention that Duffy is receiving now, I’d have been as happy as, well, a little girl. This is not just some random bit of merchandise being promoted without any research or follow-through. Duffy has experienced great success among Japanese Disney fans and while I don’t anticipate he’ll be quite as popular here, I can appreciate that he has a “history” and is not just going to show up on store shelves. If you don’t like Duffy, there is no reason you have to partake in Duffy madness, but for those with a softspot for cute and cuddly characters, he is a welcome friend.

As ZannaLand reported earlier last week, Duffy merchandise will be plentiful in World Showcase. Here are the Duffy Fast Facts, as discovered Saturday: